If you want an ATV trail that has challenges such as rolling hills and steep climbs to make, check out the Knoxville Red Elephant ATV trail. This is a huge riding area as it has over 17,000 acres of terrain.
This ATV trail is simple to get to. From the town of Lower Lake, start on Morgan Valley Road to the McLaughlin Mine where it becomes the Knoxville-Berryessa Road. Then southeast just past a plant and then go 13 miles from Lower Lake and you will see the entrance.
The current designated OHV trail is a little over 8 miles long and the trail circles two ponds. If you are riding your ATV in the early morning hours it is not uncommon to see deer and other forest residents drinking water from the ponds. Bring your camera, as you're sure to find some good photo opportunities on this ride.
There is a steep downhill section you will come across while ATVing on this trail. The downhill leads to a narrow ridge top where there is an overview of the grasslands and small streams. You will ford a small stream on your ATV and then the trail will turn very narrow and there will be multiple opportunities to switchback if you're ready to turn around your ATV and begin heading back. This is where you will come across the Red Elephant mine and it is not uncommon to see eagles riding the thermals in this area.
The ride back will take you through a small stream, and several narrow winding turns. This is an ATV trail that is rated from easy to intermediate and should be an enjoyable ride for any ATVer.
